Adam Thielen is home with the Minnesota Vikings! After a brief respite after being let go at the conclusion of the 2022 campaign, he makes his return. Defensively, the team really needs more depth at the receiver position. This development comes on the heels of a three-game suspension handed down to starting QB Jordan Addison, along with a slew of injuries to other key playmakers throughout camp.
The 35-year-old Thielen just wrapped up one of his best seasons with the Vikings, catching 70 passes. His final year with the organization coincided nicely with head coach Kevin O’Connell’s inaugural campaign in Minnesota. This window proved a consequential new era in their respective careers. The Vikings will now benefit from Thielen’s extensive experience and leadership as they navigate a challenging start to the season.
It became a huge factor once Addison was suspended and then others on the team went down with injury. Combined, this created an urgent need for more secondary receiver support. Thielen is familiar with the franchise and has a great pedigree to help. This put him in the best position possible to get back on the field. His legacy in Vikings history will truly be like no other. With more career receptions than all but two players, he stands third behind Pro Football Hall of Famers Cris Carter and Randy Moss.
Thielen’s path to the NFL was an unassuming one. He went undrafted in 2013 and was not able to secure a contract as a rookie free agent on the first go around. Despite his unfortunate injury, his fortunes turned when he received a full contract after an impressive performance at a rookie tryout camp. Throughout his nine seasons with the Vikings, Thielen has been a safe bet for fantasy quarterbacks to target. Most recently, he joined Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy for some offseason training, an experience that should help enhance their on-field chemistry.
Thielen was born in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. He perfected that versatility at Minnesota State University, Mankato, and it was enough to help him make the leap to the NFL. As a result, his return means more than just filling a roster spot. It signifies a homecoming with a franchise that has been instrumental in his development as an athlete and individual.
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